How To Choose A Radio Controlled Aircraft?
 Photo by hyper7pro at Flickr | If this is your first time to purchase an RC aircraft, then great. You arrive here at the right time. If you have already bought one and not very happy with it, you will still benefit of reading this. Buying a toy may look like a very simple thing, but it also has its fine details. Don't rush into buying before you learn more about them. As a beginning, you can start by reading this article. |
The Price Range
For a beginner RC aircraft enthusiast it's better not to spend a lot of money on your first purchase. Second time buyers may want to have something more fancy, but never forget that essentially you are just buying a toy.
In any case, spending $100 or more is not recommended, unless you are experienced hobbyist and want a really elaborate airplane. Most RC aircrafts start from $20, so $20 - $40 is a good price range for a newbie.
Simplicity
You have plenty of time to learn controlling complicated radio controlled airplanes. If you are just starting, try with some of the simplest models. Buying a complicated one from the start will not only cost you more, but may also push you away from your hobby.
Initially I wanted to own an RC helicopter and to be honest I still like them most. However the helicopters are really hard to control even from experienced RC hobbyists. I could easily get disappointed by my inability to keep it in the air for more than few seconds because it was quickly hitting the wall or the ceiling. Fortunately I was really passionate and did not give up.
Electric or Gas?
Some of the RC beginners don't even know there are model airplanes driven by gas. Indeed, electric aircrafts are more appropriate for new hobbyists. They are cheaper and their ongoing maintenance is much easier. Finally, there are a lot more electric RC aircraft available on the general toy stores.
On the other side, the toys that use gas are fairly more exciting because of the realistic feeling that you get flying them. The gas models are generally harder to fly and find - they are sold at more specialized toy shops. In short, gas models are for more advanced users and passionate "pilots".
The Kits
There are thousands of people out there who build real airplanes from kits. Then why wouldn't you be able to build an model airplane this way?
Of course you can do it. Typically the kits for RC airplanes are more elaborate and require some commitment and basic technical skills. But if you are passionate enough, it's much more fun to go this way rather than buying a ready plane.
Finally, buying a model airplane is not a big deal - it costs less than good jeans and can be done from home. So don't spend too much time planning and thinking - just get into the game!
A good place to check for RC aircrafts is Warplanes - they have quality models and the prices are pretty decent.
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